Journey...

Have you ever taken a trip that was very memorable to you?  When it comes to reminiscing about good times is there a special trip that you most enjoy talking about?  Maybe you have not had one of those times yet but listening to someone else talk about such a trip you can tell it was special.  What made it special?  Was it the sights you saw?  Was it very relaxing and stress-free?  Was it the people you traveled with and the fun you all had?  Some people will call those special trips a pilgrimage. 

The word “pilgrimage” itself insinuates something special.  In fact, it is typically understood that a pilgrimage is a journey to a holy place.  The beauty of going on a pilgrimage is that it can lead to a personal transformation.  The Catechism states, “Pilgrimages evoke our earthly journey toward heaven and are traditionally very special occasions for renewal in prayer.  For pilgrims seeking living water, shrines are special places for living the forms of Christian prayer ‘in Church.’” (Catholic Catechism 2691)

There are many beautiful shrines in the United States, not to mention in the world.  In planning your next journey or vacation consider seeking out a shrine that you and your family can visit to make your journey all the more special.  Sacred shrines can lead us to encounter a saint or the appearance of the Blessed Mother in a spiritual way bringing healing and peace to our lives.  A shrine may be a Cathedral or Basilica which incredibly adorns our Lord.  The history and/or artwork can enrich our understanding and relationship with God. 

Consider a pilgrimage to some of the world’s greatest treasures including:

·       The Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) in Spain.

·       The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France.

·       The Basilica of the Holy House in Loreto, Italy.

·       The Sanctuary of Fátima in Portugal.

·       The Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

·       Medjugorje, a place of Mary apparitions.

The United States is also home to many beautiful shrines that will inspire us and help draw us closer to the Lord.  One such place is the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.  Located in Washington, D.C., this is the largest Catholic church in North America. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, patroness of the United States.

Here too is a resource site to see a list of well over 100 U.S. shrines and basilicas to pilgrimage to. 

2025 has been designated by the Pope as a Year of Jubilee.  In this Jubilee Year the Catholic Church allows pilgrims to obtain a Jubilee Indulgence. 

Take a journey, a pilgrimage this year that will be a transforming experience in your life and one of the greatest memories you will have.  Take family or friends.  Let us Shine like the Son.